一般財団法人材料科学技術振興財団　MST List of Products and Services

Organic acids are a general term for acidic organic compounds. In addition to components found in food, such as citric acid, which contributes to sourness, and inosine acid, which contributes to umami, they are used as raw materials and additives in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial fields, with a wide range of applications. This document introduces simultaneous analysis of 12 organic acid components using HPLC and case studies of soft drink analysis. After separating each component in the column, selective analysis can be performed without being affected by interfering components by reacting with a color reagent (BTB solution) for detection. It is possible to simultaneously qualitatively and quantitatively analyze organic acids in liquid samples as well as in extracts from solids.

Knowing how administered drugs distribute within the body is important information for drug development. In this case, the drug was directly administered into the vitreous body of fish eyes, and the distribution of the drug components was evaluated in cross-sections of the eyeball. As a result, the drug components were strongly detected near the administration site, showing their distribution within the eye. By using a mass microscope called TOF-SIMS, it is possible to apply this to the pharmacokinetics of various biological organs, including the eyeball.

ICP-MS can sensitively analyze the metal content in solutions, such as the metal amounts in the cleaning solution used in the wafer cleaning process and the metal amounts in the pure water flowing through the pipes installed in the equipment and buildings. It can accommodate various types of solutions, including pure water, acids, and alkalis, and can analyze metal element concentrations ranging from ppt levels to major component levels. This document presents case studies investigating the metal content in commercially available solutions.

TOF-SIMS allows for simultaneous elemental analysis and molecular information analysis of organic and inorganic substances, and it also enables imaging analysis, making it an effective method for analyzing the distribution and penetration of target components in samples. By combining measurement methods and processing for hair, it is possible to evaluate the surface, cross-section, and depth distribution of hair from various perspectives, allowing for component comparison and permeability assessment in hair according to specific objectives.

It is possible to conduct internal structure analysis using X-ray CT while applying stress (tensile or compressive) to the sample. In this document, we used foamed rubber as an example to perform in situ X-ray CT measurements in both the normal state and the stretched state, and analyzed the volume changes of the bubbles from the obtained CT images. By combining in situ X-ray CT measurements with image analysis techniques, it is possible to evaluate under actual usage conditions, which was previously difficult, as well as assess the impact of stress on the product.

X-ray CT is a non-destructive analytical method that can measure the internal structure of samples, making it suitable for investigating abnormalities such as foreign substances, voids, and cracks within cosmetics, as well as for evaluating the dispersion of pearl agents and other components. In this case, foundation and lipstick were measured using X-ray CT to non-destructively assess their internal structures.

We would like to introduce a case study of 3D observation of cosmetics using X-ray CT and cryo-SEM, analyzed by the foundation. Liquid foundation applied to a plastic substrate was observed using X-ray CT and cryo-SEM, visualizing the dispersion state within the sample. X-ray CT allows for the confirmation of macroscopic morphology in a non-destructive and non-contact manner, while cryo-SEM enables the observation of even more microscopic structures. 【Features】 ■ The internal structure of the liquid foundation film can be evaluated through macroscopic morphological observation. ■ Detailed structural observation using an electron microscope allows for the confirmation of the shapes of emulsified particles and inorganic powders. *For more details, please refer to the PDF document or feel free to contact us.

As part of quality management, when you want to investigate components characteristic of the origin and variety, as well as components that cause defects between lots, comparisons between multiple samples are necessary. By statistically processing the data obtained from LC/MS measurements using multivariate analysis, it is possible to identify components that are characteristic of the samples among many components. In this case, we will introduce an example of investigating characteristic components among three apple juice products of different apple varieties using principal component analysis (PCA), which is one type of multivariate analysis.

Hair that has been damaged by factors such as hair color, ultraviolet rays, and aging undergoes structural changes, and measuring these structural changes is important for the research and development of hair care products. In this case, we observed the structure of hair using X-ray CT. Furthermore, by performing image analysis on the obtained CT cross-sectional images, we created histograms of the void volume in the cortex and the spacing of the cuticles. By combining X-ray CT and image analysis in this way, it is possible to quantitatively evaluate the three-dimensional structure of hair. Measurement methods: X-ray CT, computational science, AI, data analysis Product fields: Biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics Analysis objectives: Shape evaluation, structural evaluation For more details, please download the materials or contact us.

We observed a sample mixed with three types of lactic acid bacteria using SEM, and extracted the bacteria by type using deep learning from the obtained images. Furthermore, we conducted data analysis to determine the presence ratio on the cell cycle based on the shape of the lactic acid bacteria. Measurement methods: SEM, computational science, AI, data analysis Product fields: Biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, daily necessities, cosmetics, food Analysis purpose: Shape evaluation, product investigation For more details, please download the materials or contact us.

Saturation Transfer Difference (STD) NMR is a type of NMR analytical method used to identify low molecular weight compounds that interact with proteins, demonstrating significant power in drug screening and other applications. This document presents a case study where specific compounds that interact with a particular protein were identified from multiple compound groups using STD-NMR measurements. Measurement method: Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (NMR) Product fields: Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics, Food Analysis purpose: Screening, Drug Design, Interaction Evaluation For more details, please download the document or contact us.

Quantum chemical calculations can provide molecular insights (such as molecular structure, charge distribution, molecular orbitals, and mechanisms of chemical reactions) that serve as guidelines for the development and design of materials, as well as simulate various response spectra like UV-Vis and NMR with high accuracy. The results obtained can help overcome various challenges faced in research and development in fields such as functional materials and drug discovery. This document introduces the analysis targets, the physical property information obtained, and case studies that can be understood from quantum chemical calculations.

Rietveld analysis is a method for analyzing measurement data from XRD (X-ray diffraction) and neutron diffraction. In addition to identifying lattice constants and space groups using existing methods, it is possible to obtain more detailed crystallographic information, such as atomic arrangements within the unit cell, if there is a crystal structure model (candidate) for the sample.

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (NMR) is an analytical method that can obtain various information about molecular structure, intermolecular interactions, and molecular mobility, targeting various compounds including organic substances. This document presents examples of measurements conducted with a super low-temperature probe, which achieved higher sensitivity compared to a general-purpose room temperature probe.

Polymers can change shape depending on environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and solvents, and by varying the environmental conditions during evaluation, we can deepen our understanding of their physical properties. In this study, we conducted heating and cooling experiments using polycaprolactone (PCL), which is known for its biodegradability. PCL has a melting point of approximately 60°C, and we continuously observed through video how it changes from a crystalline state to an amorphous state upon heating, and how it recrystallizes upon cooling. Measurement method: AFM Product fields: Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals, Daily Goods, Food Analysis purpose: Shape evaluation For more details, please download the materials or contact us.

Pigment Red 254 (p-Cl DPP) is a type of DPP (diketopyrrolopyrrole) pigment that exhibits a vivid red color. DPP pigments are used as red pigments with excellent weather resistance, and due to their ease of mass production and low cost, they are also expected to be utilized as organic EL materials. This document presents a case study of UV-Vis spectrum simulation based on quantum chemical calculations targeting Pigment Red 254 in solution. By referring to the simulation results, the spectral shape of the measured data can be interpreted. Measurement method: Computational science and data analysis, UV-Vis Product fields: Lighting, displays, cosmetics, daily necessities Analysis purpose: Evaluation of chemical bonding states For more details, please download the document or contact us.

NMN, a type of niacin derivative, is known to be involved in the function of sirtuin genes, often referred to as longevity genes, and has gained attention in recent years. This document presents a case where the NMN content of commercially available capsules was quantitatively analyzed using NMR without the use of standard samples. Measurement method: NMR Product fields: Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics, Food Analysis purpose: Impurity evaluation, Product investigation, Safety testing For more details, please download the document or contact us.

The combustion ion chromatography (IC) method allows for the investigation of the content of halogens (F, Cl, Br) and sulfur contained in solid materials such as plastics and resins, as well as in liquid materials like organic solvents. As shown in Figure 1, gases generated by combusting and decomposing the sample in a combustion furnace are collected in an absorbent solution. By measuring this absorbent solution using ion chromatography, it is possible to determine the content of halogens and sulfur in solid samples that are insoluble in water.

LDI (Laser Desorption Ionization) is a method that uses only the energy of ultraviolet lasers to sublime and ionize molecules. On the other hand, MALDI (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization) is a method that sublimates and ionizes molecules by exposing a sample mixed with a matrix to ultraviolet lasers.

In this method, the differences in the mass of bases are analyzed using MALDI-TOF-MS to determine the DNA base sequence. This allows for the detection of SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms), INDELs (insertions/deletions), CNVs (copy number variations), and more. It is characterized by the ability to analyze a large number of samples and detect a wide range of genes at once. - Multiplex PCR and MALDI-TOF-MS enable simultaneous analysis of up to 40 mutation sites. - Mass spectrometry specialized for the detection of bases (A/T/G/C) is possible. - A variety of analytical tools are available that have been pre-designed to detect target genes based on specific purposes. - Custom designs for analytical tools are also possible.

NMN (β-nicotinamide mononucleotide) is known to be involved in the function of sirtuin genes, which are also referred to as longevity genes, and has garnered attention in recent years. This document focuses on NMN, monitoring the changes in 1H-NMR spectra due to heating treatment in water, and presents an analysis of the decomposition and changes of NMN caused by heat. Measurement method: NMR Product fields: Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics, Food Analysis objectives: Composition evaluation, Identification, Impurity evaluation, Deterioration investigation For more details, please download the document or contact us.

This method is a gene analysis technique that utilizes mass spectrometry with MALDI-TOF-MS, allowing for the analysis of multiple SNP sites in a single measurement. Up to 40 SNPs can be measured simultaneously across 190 samples. The overall analysis follows the flow outlined below. Primers designed to amplify the target SNP regions without overlapping mass peaks, along with primers designed to extend only one base at each SNP site, are used to create mass differences in the DNA fragments, from which the bases are determined based on the detected mass peaks.

Among physiological active compounds, there are many that act by targeting proteins. Therefore, obtaining structural insights into the interactions between small molecules and proteins is very important for drug development. This document presents a case study analyzing the interactions between L-tryptophan and bovine serum albumin (BSA) in solution using NMR and molecular dynamics calculations.

Acetate cellulose, obtained through the acetylation of cellulose known as a wood component, has high biodegradability and is widely used as synthetic resin, fiber, and film. It is known that the physical properties, such as solubility, change significantly depending on the degree of acetylation (degree of substitution of acetyl groups), making the evaluation of the degree of acetylation very important for industrial applications. This document presents a case study evaluating the degree of acetylation of commercially available acetate cellulose using 13C-NMR analysis. Measurement method: NMR Product fields: Biomass, polymer materials, cosmetics, daily necessities Analysis purpose: Structural evaluation, product investigation For more details, please download the document or contact us.

Real-time PCR is a method that detects the amplification of DNA fragments from PCR reactions as a fluorescent signal for each cycle. This introduces SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) analysis using the probe method of real-time PCR. Specific base sequences (probes) labeled with a reporter (fluorescent dye) and a quencher (quenching substance) are used to repeat the three steps shown below: 1) to 3). By using different reporters for each base, the SNP base is identified from the fluorescence intensity. Reactions at each step: 1) Thermal denaturation DNA is converted from double-stranded to single-stranded. 2) Annealing and hybridization Primers and probes specifically bind to single-stranded DNA. 3) Extension reaction The probe is degraded by the extension reaction of the primer, releasing the reporter from the quencher, resulting in fluorescence.

SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) refers to the parts of the DNA sequence that differ by a single nucleotide among individuals. It is believed that SNPs can lead to different characteristics such as physical traits and are also related to drug response. Therefore, SNP analysis is expected to be applied in personalized medicine. This document introduces the characteristics of real-time PCR and mass array methods among SNP analysis techniques. It is effective to choose the method according to the specific SNP locations, number of SNPs, and their frequencies that need to be investigated.

The tape stripping method is a technique for removing the stratum corneum from the skin surface using adhesive tape, and it is an effective method for evaluating the permeability of active ingredients in cosmetics and beauty devices to the skin. Products containing tranexamic acid, known for its whitening properties (such as lotions and emulsions), were applied to a person's arm, and the process of stripping the stratum corneum with adhesive tape was repeated 30 times after a certain period. By extracting multiple pieces of adhesive tape with a solvent and analyzing the extract using LC-MS/MS, the content of tranexamic acid in the stratum corneum was quantified to evaluate its permeability to the skin. Measurement method: LC/MS Product field: Cosmetics Analysis purpose: Composition evaluation and identification For more details, please download the materials or contact us.

The analysis of odor components is effective for evaluating the scent that characterizes a product and for identifying the causes of unpleasant odors. Many odor components exist as stereoisomers, and isomers can have completely different scents from each other. When distinguishing and analyzing stereoisomers, methods such as NMR may be used; however, this case will introduce an example using GC/MS. Chromatography allows for the clear separation and evaluation of target components from other components. Additionally, by using columns designed for isomer separation, it is possible to evaluate various stereoisomers that cannot be separated using general-purpose columns. Measurement method: GC/MS Product fields: Cosmetics, daily necessities, food, environment Analysis objectives: Composition evaluation, identification, product investigation For more details, please download the materials or contact us.

Rosmarinic acid, carnosol, and carnosic acid, which are abundant in plants of the Lamiaceae family represented by rosemary, are said to have antioxidant and anti-aging effects. In particular, rosmarinic acid is known as a functional ingredient included in some functional foods because of its effectiveness in reducing temporary irritability and daytime drowsiness. This document presents a case of quantifying rosmarinic acid, carnosol, and carnosic acid in cosmetics containing rosemary leaves and rosemary extract using HPLC. Measurement method: HPLC Product field: Food and cosmetics Analysis purpose: Product investigation, composition evaluation, identification, quantification For more details, please download the document or contact us.

Tensile Test It is possible to perform X-ray CT measurements while applying stress in the direction of pulling the sample. Compression Test It is possible to perform X-ray CT measurements while applying pressure in the direction of compressing the sample. Temperature Control It is possible to perform X-ray CT measurements while adjusting the temperature of the stage.

TOF-SIMS and MALDI-MS, which are representative mass spectrometry methods for solid sample surfaces, both enable qualitative analysis and imaging analysis. TOF-SIMS, which utilizes hard ionization methods, can detect inorganic and organic components with masses up to several hundred with high sensitivity. On the other hand, MALDI-MS, which employs soft ionization methods, can detect polymers in the range of thousands to tens of thousands. Additionally, the spatial resolution of the images also varies depending on the diameter of the irradiation beam.

NMR is typically performed using the resonance signals of deuterium (2H or D) nuclei in deuterated solvents for reasons such as ensuring the stability of the magnetic field. However, by using the resonance signals of proton (1H) nuclei, measurements can also be conducted with light solvents (i.e., regular solvents) (No-D measurement method). The effective measurements for the No-D method are as follows: - Measurements to evaluate interactions with light solvents (e.g., degradation studies in light solvents) - Measurements of samples that cannot use deuterated solvents (e.g., samples in the biochemical field such as proteins) - Measurements of samples containing volatile components - Measurements of samples for which no dissolvable deuterated solvents are available.

The surface of the hair cuticle is covered with a lipid called 18-MEA (18-methyl eicosanoic acid). 18-MEA is said to be the source of hair shine and smoothness, and when it decreases due to UV rays or hair coloring, the cuticle becomes more susceptible to damage. In this case, we will present the results of evaluating the differences in 18-MEA on the surfaces of healthy hair (hair near the root that has not been treated with hair color) and damaged hair (hair that has been treated with hair color) using TOF-SIMS.

We created skin tissue samples and evaluated the distribution of biogenic components in freeze-dried samples using TOF-SIMS. Since TOF-SIMS identifies components based on the mass of molecular ions, it does not require labels such as fluorescent substances, allowing for the evaluation of distribution without the influence of labeled materials. The mapping results confirmed that arginine, a natural moisturizing factor (NMF), and cholesterol, which retains moisture as an intercellular lipid, are localized in the stratum corneum. This method is also effective for assessing the permeation state during drug application.

This document presents a case study of Rietveld analysis applied to the powder X-ray diffraction data of Li(Ni, Mn, Co)O2, which is used as a positive electrode active material in lithium-ion secondary batteries. By seeking a crystal structure model that reproduces the measured powder X-ray diffraction data through simulation, it is possible to precisely calculate crystal structure parameters such as lattice constants, site occupancy rates, and the proportion of cation mixing, which can then be used to discuss the material properties.

Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastics (GFRP) are inexpensive, lightweight, and high-strength materials. Understanding their components, distribution, and internal structure is an important aspect of product design. This document presents case studies evaluating the components and structure of GF-reinforced PEEK (Poly Ether Ether Ketone) as GFRP material, as well as the degradation components of the resin after UV exposure.

Our organization has established a system that suppresses atmospheric exposure through atmosphere control, and further cools the samples for processing, observation, and analysis. We can produce TEM thin samples while maintaining the original structure of the specimen, allowing for observation and analysis. Even with unstable materials, we can perform thinning processing while cooling, and by maintaining a vacuum during the transfer between processing and observation devices, we enable cross-sectional TEM/SEM observation that minimizes atmospheric exposure and thermal alteration. 【Measurement and Processing Methods】 ■ [(S)TEM] Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy ■ Processing under atmosphere control ■ Cryo-processing *For more details, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.

We offer NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Analysis) services. Since NMR directly observes nuclear spins, the area of the peaks of the measured nuclides obtained from the measurement is proportional to the number and concentration of the nuclides contained in the solution or solid being measured. Based on this principle, NMR allows for quantitative analysis without the need for a calibration curve. For example, using the integral value of the peak of the 31P nucleus, it is possible to determine the concentration of one component of a two-component mixture from the known concentration of the other component according to a relationship. [Measurement Method / Processing Method] ■ [NMR] Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Analysis *For more details, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.

We will introduce a technique that emphasizes the signals of polymers or small molecules using a measurement method that utilizes the differences in relaxation times or diffusion coefficients of each component in a mixed sample. When electromagnetic waves are irradiated onto atomic nuclei in a static magnetic field, they absorb energy corresponding to the energy difference ΔE and enter an excited state (nuclear magnetic resonance). When the irradiation of electromagnetic waves is stopped, the process of returning to the original state is called relaxation, and the relaxation time is the time required for this process. The relaxation time is closely related to the mobility of the molecules. [Measurement Method / Processing Method] ■ [NMR] Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Analysis *For more details, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.

We would like to introduce our spectral separation technology using the DOSY method. In NMR, when performing structural analysis of each component in a mixed sample, each component is typically isolated and purified before measurement. The DOSY method allows for the separation of spectra for each component by utilizing the differences in diffusion rates, enabling structural analysis of each component in a mixed sample without the need for isolation and purification. 【Features】 - Effective for measuring samples where physical separation by molecular weight is difficult - Effective for measuring samples that undergo structural changes during pretreatment (e.g., samples in the biochemical field such as proteins) - Facilitates structural analysis of each component by separating mixed spectra of multiple components - Provides insights into the mobility of molecules of each component in the mixture *For more details, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.

We offer particle size analysis of Au nanoparticles using small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) method. Metal nanoparticles are known to exhibit unique properties not found in bulk metals. Due to their high catalytic activity and optical properties such as surface plasmon resonance, they are used in applications like fuel cell electrode catalysts and biosensors. To control these properties, it is necessary to understand their structure and composition. By using TEM and SAXS complementarily, it is possible to conduct reliable particle size analysis. [Measurement and Processing Methods] ■ [(S)TEM] Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy ■ [SAXS] Small-Angle X-ray Scattering *For more details, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.

When evaluating the internal structure of materials, it is necessary to expose the internal structure while maintaining it through cross-sectional processing techniques such as cutting and polishing. This document introduces a case where the microtome method, which has a relatively small impact from processing damage, was used to create cross-sections of hair, followed by AFM observation of the internal structure and evaluation of elastic modulus. The microtome method is a cutting processing technique widely used in the field of soft materials, such as rubber materials and biological samples, and this approach has made it possible to evaluate the mechanical properties of the internal structure of these materials. [Measurement and Processing Methods] [AFM] Atomic Force Microscopy [AFM-MA・AFM-DMA] Mechanical Property Evaluation (Elastic Modulus Measurement, Dynamic Viscoelasticity Measurement) Ultra Microtome Processing *For more details, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.

Our organization offers imaging of cuticles. The evaluation of cuticles has been limited to structural observation using electron microscopy due to their fine structure, and detailed component distribution has remained unclear. By using TOF-SIMS, which can evaluate the distribution of inorganic and organic materials at the sub-micron level, it is possible to assess the distribution of various components within the cuticle. This document presents the results of evaluating hair and visualizing the component distribution within the cuticle. [Measurement and Processing Method] ■ [TOF-SIMS] Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry *For more details, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.

Our organization offers (S)TEM observation using negative staining. Organic functional materials, such as fine particles and fibrous substances, are primarily composed of light elements like C (carbon), H (hydrogen), O (oxygen), and N (nitrogen), which do not provide sufficient contrast for morphological observation in (S)TEM. Therefore, by applying staining to these materials, we can enhance the contrast and enable observation. In this instance, we will introduce a case where negative staining was performed using phosphotungstic acid (H3[P(W3O10)4]·nH2O, abbreviated as PTA). 【Measurement Method / Processing Method】 ■ [(S)TEM] Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy ■ Others *For more details, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.

Our organization offers (S)TEM analysis of the fine structure of hair cross-sections. The hair cell membrane complex (CMC) serves as a pathway for chemicals during processes such as bleaching and dyeing hair. In particular, the CMC between the cuticle layers has a three-layer structure, which we have visualized. We present a case where osmium tetroxide (OsO4) was used for electron staining targeting unsaturated fatty acids in lipids, followed by TEM observation and STEM-EDX analysis. [Measurement and Processing Methods] ■ [(S)TEM] Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy ■ [TEM-EDX] Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (TEM) ■ Ultramicrotome processing ■ Others *For more details, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.